methotrexate

[Dexter1414]

how does everyone cope when it comes to summer weather with methotrexate

[hazelcats]

For myself, I have always been pretty sensitive to the sun, so tend to avoid it, but know that we need extra protection from the sun if on methotrexate.I use sun protector for sensitive skin, factor 50 (yes even in the UK sun!) on my face and at least factor 30 on skin that is exposed. I also use a wide brimmed hat and try to stay pretty covered up. Even on slightly overcast days we need skin protecting.

I also have fibromyalgia so bright lights can be hard for me, so I went for a bit of a 50s hollywood look - big big sunglasses and the lightweight wide brim hat. 😁

[helenlw7]

I rarely go outside on hot days because my body doesn’t cope well with heat. If I have to go out I use factor 50 and wear a hat.

[Spanelmad]

Factor 50 and a hat with built in uv protection.

[ABwn]

Wear sun factor 50 on face and neck, 30 on body, wide brimmed hat, sit in shade to read. Much prefer sun to the weather we're experiencing at the moment!! Take care.

[Cat-E]

I dont really do anything and haven't noticed that I am any more sensitive to the sun than I was before, however, I have never really been a sunbather and tend to sit in the shade. I also try to use face cream with a spf in it.

[Pitbull2017]

We must all be different, after suffering RA for 30 years and on methotrexate for many of those years I'm now considered in remission, being a sun worshiper I love playing golf in 30° heat always use barrier cream or oil, always end the summer with a natural suntan, and never had a problem with medication in sunny weather.

[Jacojudy303]

Same as some of the others posting here, I've not taken any extra precautions. I do avoid laying out in the sun as I don't want to ruin my skin and get skin cancer. I spend a lot of time outside and wear a visor or cap to protect my face and eyes.

[medway-lady]

All the RA meds like AZA too can mean avoiding the sun, it's ok for me as fair and freckles so always been like that. I've got a bush hat and others together sun factor 50 on face etc. But to be fair in the gentle heat my RA gets a lot better so its swings and roundabouts really. Clinique do a sun screen make up its good if expensive and you dont need a lot on.

[GordonEdin]

Well, I've been on methotrexate some fifteen years and to be honest had forgotten that sun sensitivity was a side effect.

Really, I just do what I would anyway. Put sunscreen on sensitive bits, wear a hat and don't spend long periods baking in the sun. I certainly don't avoid going out.

I've always tended to just go red in the sun anyway. Have never really been able to get a good tan.

I would suggest that you just be a bit extra careful until you know how it affects you - especially if you have previously been in the habit of doing lots of sunbathing.

[Colaba]

I have been taking Methotrexate since 2021, when I was diagnosed with RA. I was not aware of any sunshine-related problems, nor was I ever ever warned of them. I have found none. I am old, 85, I go to France - Brittany mostly but also the south.

Methotrexate seems to have worked rather well for me. I have experienced few pains and almost no 'reflected' pains.

I am much weaker than before the disease, more than the result of ageing.

I have very poor contact with any medical 'teams' and have been ignored by the specialist centre for the past three years. It is conceivable that my GP is in contact with them, for example with the results of quite frequent blood tests, but I have no evidence of that.

My biggest problem is my knees - not RA. However, the cost-effectiveness, and indeed a likely four-year wait, taking account of my age, rather rules out any action.

I lead quite an active and pleasing life so, as they say, 'Mustn't grumble,' But hey, why not?

Will Taylor